Dine Out Lauderdale is on: Today kicks off the six-week-long opportunity to check out some of Fort Lauderdale's most popular (and in some cases, expensive) restaurants. Also happening this week are a variety of events centered around beer (it is Oktoberfest time, after all), wine, and even sake. Read on for a list of food and drink events this week in Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Still easing into the whole "trying to like sake" thing? All RA Sushi locations in South Florida will partake in International Sake Day by offering hot sake for $1 all day Monday.

Tuesday

Oktoberfest beer and cheese pairing

Cheese makes everything better. See what it does when paired with craft brews at an Oktoberfest-themed beer and cheese pairing Tuesday night at the Cheese Culture in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The newly revamped specialty shop/cafe/wine bar will host the event at 7 p.m. Tuesday and the cost is $35 per person. Call 954-533-9178 to book a spot; they'll go fast.

Wednesday

Fundraiser at The Blind Monk

If you're into saving old buildings (and drinking), check out the Blind Monk in West Palm Beach from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Donate $20 (or more, if you'd like) and get a free drink. After that, you'll have access to beer and wine specials for the duration of the event, which will raise funds for the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach. No reservations are necessary.

Thursday

Portugese wine tasting

The name may imply an Asiatic theme, but the culinary offerings at Jade Kitchen are actually a bit all over the map. Example: The Northwood restaurant will host a guided Portugal wine tasting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, with each vintage matched to a Portugese-inspired small bite. The cost to attend is $20 in advance and $25 at the door (register online to save a few dollars). Jade Kitchen is located at 422A Northwood Rd. in West Palm Beach. Call 561-366-1185.

Craft beer tasting at Cafe Boulud

Cafe Boulud is taking on Oktoberfest with a Florida-themed craft beer pairing night at 6:30 p.m. Thursday. The evening will feature brews by Holy Mackerel, Inlet Brewing, Native Brewing, and Cigar City, matched with small plates and housemade sausages. The cost is $28 per person plus tax and tip. R.S.V.P. by calling 561-655-6060.

Down the Line

Want to be the first to know about upcoming events and specials? Sign up to receive New Times' weekly dining newsletter, Cafe Bites. Other specialty newsletters focus on music, arts and culture, and free stuff. Check them out and sign up here.